6 Step

Introduction: 6 Step

This guide aims to introduce a common form that is taught to aspiring break dancers. This is the very first basic form of ground work that I learned when I started. The 6 Step is usually taught first to allow breakers to get comfortable with movements where weight is distributed to the hands as well as other parts of the body (not just feet). As an introductory form, take note to be careful and only move within your comfort zone.

You should remember that a step is defined as a movement from one location to another so the actual transition is the step rather than a pose. Keeping this in mind will allow for fluidity.

The carpet has a grid which you can use as a reference. I also used a guitar (in its case) as a reference point. You will begin and end facing the guitar as I am in the picture.

First, establish a reference point and get in push-up position. Again, a step is defined as a movement of the foot from one position to the next position.

Step 1: First Step

I'm right-handed, so I'll be using my right foot as my leading foot. The back foot refers to the other foot. The leading hand is on the same side as the leading foot.

Bring your leading foot below your back foot to cross over to the other side. While moving your foot, you will want to lift your opposite hand so that you're balancing on the leading hand.

Make sure your leg is fairly straight and you are resting on the side of your foot. (Not the ankle!)

Step 2: Second Step

Since you were on the side of your foot (not the ankle!), you should have enough resistance to balance with the strength of your leading leg for this step.

Pull your back foot forward and towards your leading knee so that you lead leg curls and shift your weight to your back leg once again.

Step 3: Third Step

When changing hands, make sure the flat portion of your fingers land first to absorb shock. Your wrist will be subject to unnecessary stress if you land on your palm first. Especially when you gain speed with practice, you'll be on and off. It's best to practice correctly and develop good habits early as with most things.

I apologize for awkward pictures. Steps are meant to be presented in fluid motion. Holding each pose is actually counter-intuitive to learning how to feel the music and move with the beat.

Swing your leading leg over and switch hands simultaneously.

Step 4: Fourth Step

Kick out with your back leg to add more dynamic movements and to do step 4. This should be the mirror image of step 2 position!

Your back leg should now be in front and bent while your leading foot is planted to the ground. Make sure the lateral side of the back foot is on the ground! (once again, not the ankle!)

Step 5: Fifth Step

Using the same technique as the transition from step 1 to 2, balance on the lateral side of your foot (NOTE: The picture is showing what NOT to do.)...

And extend the leading foot straight back.

Step 6: Final Step

Bring your back foot back into push-up position. This is the sixth step of the 6 step which concludes this guide. Check your ankles. Are they broken? If not, good job!

With lots of practice, you can gain speed and fluidity, accuracy and precision. Add some music and time your steps to the beat.

It might be beneficial to check out other dancers for ideas for transitioning into the 6 Step. Transitions are very illustrative of each dancer's style and can be a crucial point to capture audience attention while showing a bit of yourself. Check out

Step 7: How About This One?

After mastering the 6 step, you should work on this freeze, the Baby Freeze.